Judson University Unveils Innovative Live-Work Architecture Center

The Future Architect Fund and Judson University have celebrated the grand opening of Glunz Hall, a new hybrid live-work residence and design studio tailored for the university’s master of architecture program. The facility, located at 28 N. Grove Ave. in downtown Elgin, aims to provide a unique environment where graduate architecture students can live, work, and learn, effectively merging historic preservation with innovative design.

Architectural firm Studio Vertez undertook the redesign of the former mid-century bank building, transforming it into a space that fosters creativity and collaboration among students. According to Benjamin Glunz, founder of the Future Architect Fund, “It’s hard to imagine a more fitting place to immerse oneself in the study of architecture than this historic building at the heart of an architecturally rich city like Elgin.” He emphasizes that the goal is to bridge the gap between academic study and real-world practice, allowing students to engage with their local community actively.

The project, which cost approximately $4.2 million, took three and a half years to complete. Funding sources included a $200,000 purchase price for the property, $400,000 from the downtown Elgin tax increment financing district, and $85,000 from a city sprinkler grant. All financial contributions were secured outside of Judson University’s operating budget, ensuring that the project did not strain existing resources.

Facilities and Features of Glunz Hall

Glunz Hall is described as “for architects, by architects,” and represents a substantial investment in the architectural profession. The building comprises 13 apartments that can accommodate around 40 students, along with the Glunz Studio for Architecture and Urbanism, which serves as a collaborative design workspace. This studio is situated on the ground floor and is integrated into the architecture students’ room and board fees.

In-kind contributions from various building industry partners have further enriched the project. Notable donors include Behr Paint Company, DuPont Corian, Delta Faucet, and Visual Comfort & Co., among others. Each donation has been designed to function as a hands-on learning tool for student residents, effectively turning Glunz Hall into a living laboratory for building material science.

Community Impact and Future Prospects

The establishment of Glunz Hall is expected to enhance the educational experience for architecture students by providing them with a realistic environment that simulates professional practice. This initiative underscores the commitment of the Future Architect Fund to nurture the next generation of architects through innovative educational approaches.

More information about the Future Architect Fund can be found on their website at www.futurearchitectfund.org, while details regarding Judson University are available at www.judsonu.edu. As this facility opens its doors to students, it promises to be a cornerstone for architectural education and community engagement in Elgin.